CHERRIES winger Max Gradel revelled in the delight of getting one over on former-suitors West Ham United.

The Hammers were among a host of Premier League clubs linked with a swoop for the Ivory Coast international this summer but he eventually settled on a switch to Vitality Stadium having publicised his desire to leave French club Saint-Etienne.

Gradel revealed West Ham had maintained a fleeting interest in his services over the past three years without taking firm action and that his lively display in Saturday’s 4-3 win at the Boleyn Ground had tasted that little bit sweeter as a result.

Gradel, who played for Leeds United at the home of the Hammers in August 2011 shortly before his switch to France, told the Daily Echo: “Every time I play against West Ham, it is the same story.

“I have been linked to this club so many times but in the end, they made the decision not to sign me and this year was the same.

“It is three years in a row now where it hasn’t happened so I always have a point to prove against West Ham.

“I have done it again, so I am happy.”

On the match, Gradel added: “It was a good win and I am very happy for us to get our first points of the season.

“I hope this result will give us more confidence for our next Premier League games.”